Data Link Processing and Management

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Northrop Grumman offers world-class expertise in tactical data link (TDL) technology. No other TDL products are as widely used. Our planning and management software are the industry standards for satellite communications, RF/wireless, and TDLs. We are also the premier provider of multi-link and interoperability certification tools. And, we were the first company to deliver and market a secure wireless LAN solution good enough to support military and intelligence applications. We recently published the latest in a series of our Understanding guidebooks – Understanding Voice and Data Link Networking – which can be viewed or downloaded from this site.

PRODUCTS

Gateways

GM - Gateway Manager
Powerful data link router and forwarder gives commanders the ability to network multiple platforms communicating on different protocols while providing a comprehensive operational picture in real time. Hosts and emulates more JTIDS/MIDS terminals than any gateway available. Controls data communications locally and remotely, making it a flexible tool for managing tactical networks. GM is offered commercially and on NAVSEA's hardware and engineering services contract.

MLSG - Multi-Link Service Gateway
MLSG is not just another router; it enables Link 16, Link 22 and VMF communications on new and existing platforms. For maritime and headquarters installations, MLSG processes JREAP A, B and C; Link 22, link 16; Link 11 and VMF messages.

Tactical Network Planning & Management

RTSA – Real Time Situational Awareness
RTSA leverages the technology developed on the BACN (Battlefield Airborne Communications Node), ROBE (Roll-on Beyond Line-of-Sight Enhancement), and RTIC (Real Time Information In the Cockpit) programs to provide a low-cost, certified tactical network capability to ensure SA in the cockpit.

REPRESENTATIVE PROGRAMS

BACN – Battlefield Airborne Communications NodePrototype for a remotely accessed, high altitude tactical communications and networking node intended for use on a variety of airborne, maritime and ground platforms. Northrop Grumman demonstrated BACN’s network-centric enhancement of battlespace communications and intelligence sharing by implementing the first-ever real-time download and distribution of sensor information from an F-22 Raptor fighter to F-15 and F-16 aircraft via the F-22-unique datalink. BACN is part of the Air Force initiative called Objective Gateway, which will be modular and scalable, with Internet IP-based networking capabilities that service theater-wide operational and tactical users. GM was used on BACN. More BACN news.

Link-22 - NATO-Improved Link 11 (NILE)Replacing the aging Link 11 standard and interoperable with Link 16 networks. Enables participating NATO nations to procure tactical data systems that are interoperable and compatible with those of the other participating Link 22 nations. Northrop Grumman was there at the beginning in 1992.

NGC2P - Next Generation Command and Control ProcessorNext Generation Command and Control Processor (NGC2P) Technology Refresh and Link 22 development. The Space and Naval Warfare System Command, San Diego, California, is the contracting activity. The NGC2P system is a tactical data link (TDL) communication processor that provides critical real-time information about friendly and enemy activity during combat operations. The contract deals with obsolescence issues in the current NGC2P system and assists system capability enhancements and new capability insertion, such as Link 22. Under the contract, Northrop is acquiring software and hardware system development, engineering services and technology refresh field change kits.

ROBE - Roll-On Beyond Line-of-Sight EnhancementRoll this rapidly installable and transportable tactical data link node onto a tanker aircraft. Instantly, the tanker is a communications center, able to relay command decision-making information anywhere in the world. GM was used on ROBE.

TDL Training

Northrop Grumman offers comprehensive training for all its products and programs, including tailored classes on Link 16, Link 11, and Link 22. We authored the well-known Understanding series of data link guidebooks. Currently, Understanding Link 22, can be downloaded in its Overview version, approved for public release (Chapter 1 plus selected appendices). A new release - Understanding Voice and Data Link Networking - is provided here in its entirety.

TRIPSS TrainingImagine a custom training and technical documentation solution, lowering costs, while making training and technical data available to all users whenever and wherever up-to-date information is needed. With TRIPSS, imagination is a reality as users are immersed in a total training and technical documentation support system, enabling true blended training, just-in-time learning and interactive technical, and maintenance documentation at the point and time of need.